Pothast Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcclellan Bros. Hickman No.1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Pothast Dam, located in Ziebach, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 2003 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
With a height of 30 feet and a length of 470 feet, the dam serves the primary purpose of regulating the flow of Tr. Rudy Creek. It has a maximum storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 38 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 880 cubic feet per second.
Despite being categorized as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Pothast Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 65 feet, and it is designed to withstand various climatic conditions in the region. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, it is maintained in accordance with state guidelines and regulations to ensure its safety and functionality for water resource management in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pothast Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned earth dam in South Dakota, highlighting the importance of proper regulation, inspection, and maintenance for sustainable water management practices. With its strategic location and design features, the dam plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of Tr. Rudy Creek and mitigating potential risks associated with flooding and water discharge. As a key infrastructure asset in the region, Pothast Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and regulatory oversight in safeguarding communities and natural ecosystems.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR. RUDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Cheyenne R Near Plainview Sd
|
0cfs |
Moreau R Near Faith Sd
|
14cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Pothast Dam